Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system comprising: a housing configured to store a plurality of containers; a container-moving assembly positioned within the housing; and a user access assembly supported on the housing, the user access assembly including a port configured to receive a container from outside of the housing, wherein the container-moving assembly is operable to retrieve the container from the port and position the container within the housing, and a rear door positioned within the housing to selectively block access to an interior of the housing from the port, wherein the rear door moves away from the port when the container received in the port contacts the rear door to provide a gap between the rear door and the container.
Pharmaceutical storage and dispensing. This invention addresses the need for secure and automated storage and retrieval of pharmaceutical containers. The system includes a housing designed to hold multiple containers. A mechanism for moving containers is located inside the housing. A user interface is attached to the housing and features an opening, or port, where a container can be inserted from the outside. The internal container-moving assembly is capable of taking a container from this port and placing it within the housing for storage. A rear door is also situated within the housing. This door can prevent access to the interior of the housing through the port. Crucially, the rear door is designed to move away from the port when a container inserted into the port makes contact with it. This movement creates a space or gap between the rear door and the container, allowing for the container to be received into the system.
2. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 1 , wherein the port includes a ramped portion, and wherein the rear door follows the ramped portion to move away from the port.
A pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system is designed to manage and organize pharmaceutical items, particularly in environments where controlled access and efficient retrieval are critical, such as hospitals or pharmacies. The system includes a storage unit with a port for accessing stored items, and a rear door that moves to facilitate item retrieval. The port features a ramped portion, which guides the rear door to move away from the port as items are accessed. This mechanism ensures smooth and controlled movement of the door, preventing obstructions and allowing quick retrieval of pharmaceuticals. The system may also include additional features such as locking mechanisms, temperature control, or automated tracking to enhance security and efficiency. The ramped design of the port optimizes the door's movement, reducing wear and tear while maintaining reliable operation. This system addresses challenges in pharmaceutical storage, such as maintaining organization, preventing contamination, and ensuring rapid access to medications.
3. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 2 , wherein the door slides up to move away from the port.
A pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system is designed to securely store and dispense medications while preventing unauthorized access. The system includes a storage compartment with a door that slides upward to expose a port for retrieving items. The door mechanism ensures that the port remains covered when not in use, maintaining security and environmental control. The system may also incorporate sensors to detect the presence of authorized personnel or proper access conditions before allowing the door to open. Additionally, the system can include tracking features to monitor inventory levels and usage, ensuring accurate record-keeping and compliance with regulatory standards. The upward-sliding door design minimizes space requirements and allows for efficient access to stored medications. The system is particularly useful in healthcare settings where controlled access to pharmaceuticals is critical.
4. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 1 , wherein the user access assembly includes a scale positioned within the port, and wherein the scale is operable to measure a weight of the container positioned within the port.
This invention relates to a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system designed to improve the handling and tracking of pharmaceutical containers. The system addresses challenges in accurately measuring and recording the weight of pharmaceutical containers during storage and retrieval processes, which is critical for inventory management and dosage accuracy. The system includes a user access assembly with a port for inserting and removing containers. A scale is integrated within the port to measure the weight of the container when it is positioned inside. This allows for real-time weight measurement, which can be used to verify the contents of the container, track inventory levels, and ensure proper dosage dispensing. The scale is designed to interface with the container in a way that provides precise and reliable measurements, even when the container is partially filled or contains multiple items. The system may also include additional features such as automated retrieval mechanisms, identification sensors, and data logging capabilities to further enhance pharmaceutical management. The scale's integration into the port ensures that weight measurements are taken consistently and accurately, reducing human error and improving operational efficiency in pharmaceutical storage environments. This invention is particularly useful in hospitals, pharmacies, and other settings where precise tracking of pharmaceuticals is essential.
5. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 4 , wherein the rear door provides the gap between the rear door and the container so the rear door does not interfere with weight measurements of the container.
This invention relates to a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system designed to improve the accuracy of weight measurements for containers within a storage unit. The system includes a storage compartment with a rear door that creates a controlled gap between the door and the container. This gap ensures that the rear door does not physically interfere with the container during weight measurements, preventing any unintended contact that could affect measurement precision. The storage compartment is configured to hold containers, such as vials or bottles, and may include mechanisms for automated retrieval and storage. The rear door is adjustable or positioned in a way that maintains the gap while still providing secure containment. The system may also include sensors or calibration features to ensure accurate weight readings, which are critical for inventory management and dispensing in pharmaceutical applications. The design addresses the challenge of maintaining measurement accuracy in automated storage systems where door interference could otherwise lead to errors in tracking medication quantities.
6. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 1 , wherein the rear door is configured to be in a closed position when the container is inserted into the port.
A pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system is designed to securely store and manage pharmaceutical containers, particularly in environments requiring controlled access and tracking. The system includes a storage unit with a port for inserting and retrieving containers, such as vials or cartridges, and a rear door that ensures proper containment and security during these operations. The rear door is specifically configured to remain in a closed position when a container is inserted into the port, preventing unauthorized access or contamination. This feature helps maintain the integrity of the stored pharmaceuticals, which is critical for safety and regulatory compliance. The system may also include mechanisms for locking the door, tracking container movements, and ensuring proper alignment during insertion. The closed-door design during insertion minimizes exposure to external contaminants and enhances security, making it suitable for use in hospitals, pharmacies, or automated dispensing systems. The system may further integrate with inventory management software to monitor stock levels and expiration dates, improving efficiency in pharmaceutical storage and retrieval.
7. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 1 , wherein the user access assembly includes a first guide member and a second guide member positioned within the port, and wherein the first guide member and the second guide member hold the container in a position within the port.
This invention relates to a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system designed to securely hold and retrieve containers, such as vials or syringes, in a controlled environment. The system addresses the challenge of maintaining sterility and precise positioning of pharmaceutical containers during storage and access, which is critical in medical and laboratory settings to prevent contamination and ensure accurate dosing. The system includes a user access assembly with a port through which containers are inserted or removed. Within this port, two guide members are positioned to hold the container in a fixed position. The first guide member and the second guide member work together to stabilize the container, preventing movement or misalignment during storage or retrieval. This ensures that the container remains properly oriented and accessible while minimizing the risk of damage or contamination. The guide members may be adjustable or fixed, depending on the design, to accommodate different container sizes and shapes. The system may also include additional features, such as locking mechanisms or sensors, to further enhance security and tracking of the stored pharmaceuticals. The overall design improves efficiency and safety in pharmaceutical handling, particularly in automated or high-throughput environments.
8. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 7 , wherein each of the first and second guide members includes a first portion that is oriented on a diagonal with respect to a center line of the port, and a second portion that is oriented substantially parallel with respect to the center line of the port.
This invention relates to a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system designed to improve the organization and accessibility of pharmaceutical containers within a storage unit. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently storing and retrieving multiple pharmaceutical containers, particularly in environments where space optimization and quick access are critical, such as hospitals or pharmacies. The system includes a storage unit with multiple ports, each port configured to hold a pharmaceutical container. Each port is equipped with guide members that facilitate the insertion and removal of containers. These guide members have a first portion oriented diagonally relative to the port's center line, which helps guide the container into the correct position during insertion. A second portion of the guide members is oriented parallel to the center line, ensuring the container is securely held once inserted. This dual-orientation design enhances stability and prevents containers from dislodging during retrieval. The system may also include a locking mechanism to further secure the containers within the ports, ensuring they remain in place until intentionally removed. The overall structure allows for compact storage while maintaining easy access to individual containers, improving efficiency in pharmaceutical handling.
9. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 8 , wherein the first and second guide members are biased toward each other to a first position such that the second portions of the first and second guide members are spaced apart a predetermined distance, and wherein the first and second guide members move apart from each other as pressure is applied to the first and second guide members when the container is inserted into the port.
This invention relates to a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system designed to securely hold and dispense containers, such as vials or syringes, while preventing unauthorized access. The system includes a housing with a port for inserting or retrieving a container, and guide members that facilitate the movement of the container into and out of the housing. The guide members are biased toward each other in a default position, maintaining a predetermined spacing between their second portions. When a container is inserted into the port, pressure is applied to the guide members, causing them to move apart against the bias force. This mechanism ensures controlled insertion and retrieval while maintaining security. The system may also include locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized removal of the container once stored. The design ensures that containers are securely held until intentionally accessed, reducing the risk of tampering or accidental release. The biasing and movement of the guide members allow for smooth operation while maintaining structural integrity and security.
10. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 7 , wherein the user access assembly also includes a scanner positioned within the port, and wherein the scanner is operable to obtain data regarding the container while the container is held by the first and second guide members.
The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system is designed to manage and track pharmaceutical containers within a secure storage environment. The system addresses challenges in accurately identifying and retrieving pharmaceutical containers while maintaining security and efficiency in high-volume settings such as hospitals or pharmacies. The system includes a storage assembly with multiple storage locations for holding containers, a user access assembly that allows controlled access to the containers, and a retrieval mechanism to move containers between storage locations and the access assembly. The user access assembly includes a port through which containers are inserted or retrieved. Within this port, a scanner is positioned to capture data from the container, such as barcodes or RFID tags, while the container is held in place by guide members. This ensures that the container is properly identified before access is granted or retrieval is initiated. The scanner operates automatically as the container is positioned, eliminating the need for manual scanning and reducing errors. The system enhances security by verifying container identity before any movement or access, preventing unauthorized retrieval or misplacement of pharmaceuticals. The integration of the scanner within the access port streamlines the workflow, ensuring accurate tracking and retrieval of pharmaceutical containers in a controlled environment.
11. The pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system of claim 1 , wherein the user access assembly includes a front door to selectively block access to the port from outside of the housing.
This invention relates to a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system designed to securely store and dispense medications. The system addresses challenges in controlled access, inventory management, and tamper prevention in pharmaceutical storage environments. The system includes a housing with an internal storage compartment for holding pharmaceutical items, a port for transferring items between the storage compartment and an external environment, and a user access assembly that regulates access to the port. The user access assembly incorporates a front door that can be selectively opened or closed to block or permit access to the port from outside the housing. This door ensures that only authorized users can retrieve or deposit medications, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access. The system may also include additional features such as authentication mechanisms, inventory tracking, and automated dispensing to further improve efficiency and safety in pharmaceutical storage and retrieval. The front door mechanism is particularly useful in environments where strict access control is required, such as hospitals, pharmacies, or automated dispensing cabinets.
12. A method of operating a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system, the pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system including a housing configured to store a plurality of containers, a container-moving assembly positioned within the housing, and a user access assembly supported on the housing, the user access assembly including a port and a rear door positioned within the housing to selectively block access to an interior of the housing from the port, the method comprising: positioning a container within the port from outside of the housing; contacting the rear door with the container; and moving the rear door away from the port to provide a gap between the rear door and the container.
This invention relates to a pharmaceutical storage and retrieval system designed to securely store and dispense pharmaceutical containers while preventing unauthorized access. The system includes a housing that holds multiple containers, a container-moving assembly inside the housing to transport containers, and a user access assembly with a port and a rear door. The rear door blocks access to the housing interior from the port when closed. The method involves inserting a container into the port from outside the housing, allowing the container to contact the rear door, and then moving the rear door away from the port to create a gap between the door and the container. This gap enables the container-moving assembly to engage and retrieve the container from the port. The system ensures controlled access to stored pharmaceuticals, preventing tampering or unauthorized removal. The container-moving assembly may include robotic arms, conveyors, or other mechanisms to transport containers within the housing. The rear door may be actuated mechanically, electrically, or pneumatically to create the necessary gap for retrieval. This method improves security and efficiency in pharmaceutical storage and retrieval operations.
13. The method of claim 12 , wherein moving the rear door away from the port includes following a ramped portion of the port with the rear door to move the rear door away from the port.
This invention relates to a system for managing access to a port, particularly in a vehicle or container, where controlled movement of a rear door is used to secure or expose the port. The problem addressed is ensuring proper alignment and sealing of the rear door relative to the port while allowing for efficient opening and closing mechanisms. The invention involves a rear door that moves relative to a port, where the movement includes following a ramped portion of the port to guide the rear door away from the port. This ramped portion facilitates smooth and controlled separation of the rear door from the port, preventing misalignment or damage during the process. The system may include a locking mechanism to secure the rear door in place when closed, ensuring a tight seal around the port. The ramped portion of the port may be integrated into the port's structure or attached as a separate component. The invention ensures that the rear door moves in a predefined path, reducing wear and tear on the components and improving the overall durability of the system. The method may be applied in various applications where controlled access to a port is required, such as in automotive, aerospace, or industrial settings.
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein moving the rear door away from the port also includes sliding the door up.
A system and method for managing access to a port in a vehicle or similar structure involves a rear door that can be moved to expose the port. The door is designed to slide upward to clear the port, allowing access to the port for maintenance, refueling, or other operations. The door may be part of a larger access mechanism that includes a frame or housing to guide the door's movement. The system ensures secure closure of the door when not in use, preventing unauthorized access or environmental contamination. The upward sliding motion may be motorized or manually operated, depending on the application. This design is particularly useful in environments where space is limited or where the port must remain protected when not in use. The door's movement may be synchronized with other components, such as latches or seals, to ensure proper operation. The system may also include sensors or indicators to confirm the door's position, ensuring safety and functionality. The invention addresses the need for reliable, secure, and efficient access to ports in vehicles or similar structures while maintaining protection when the port is not in use.
15. The method of claim 12 , further comprising weighing the container with a scale positioned within the port, wherein providing the gap between the rear door and the container prevents interference from the rear door with weight measurements of the container.
A method for weighing a container within a vehicle involves positioning a scale within a port of the vehicle to measure the container's weight. The container is placed in a way that creates a gap between its rear door and the container itself, ensuring the rear door does not interfere with the weight measurement. This gap prevents any contact or obstruction that could affect the accuracy of the scale reading. The method may also include other steps such as securing the container in place, aligning it with the port, and ensuring proper positioning for consistent measurements. The system may further include sensors or mechanisms to detect and adjust the container's position to maintain the required gap. The overall approach aims to improve the reliability of weight measurements by minimizing external influences, particularly from the vehicle's rear door, during the weighing process. This is useful in applications where precise weight data is critical, such as logistics, shipping, or inventory management.
16. The method of claim 12 , further comprising opening the rear door after the rear door is moved away from the port.
A system and method for managing access to a port in a vehicle, particularly for facilitating the connection of external devices such as charging cables or diagnostic tools. The invention addresses the challenge of ensuring secure and efficient access to vehicle ports, which are often located in hard-to-reach areas, while preventing unauthorized access or damage. The method involves detecting a request to access the port, verifying authorization, and then actuating a mechanism to move a rear door away from the port to expose it. This allows a user or external device to connect to the port without physical obstruction. After the connection is made, the rear door is automatically opened to provide full access to the port. The system may include sensors to detect the presence of a connection or user input, ensuring the door only opens when necessary. The invention improves convenience and security by automating the access process and reducing the risk of tampering or accidental damage to the port. The method may be integrated into vehicle control systems, such as those managing charging or diagnostic functions, to streamline operations and enhance user experience.
17. The method of claim 16 , further comprising retrieving the container from the port with the container-moving assembly while the rear door is open.
A system and method for automated container handling at a port involves a container-moving assembly designed to transport shipping containers. The assembly includes a frame, a lifting mechanism, and a rear door that can be opened and closed to facilitate container loading and unloading. The lifting mechanism is configured to engage and secure a container, allowing the assembly to move the container between different locations within the port. The rear door is positioned at the rear of the assembly and can be opened to provide access to the container during loading or unloading operations. The system further includes a control mechanism that coordinates the movement of the lifting mechanism and the opening and closing of the rear door to ensure efficient and safe container handling. The method involves positioning the container-moving assembly adjacent to a container, opening the rear door, engaging the container with the lifting mechanism, and retrieving the container from the port while the rear door remains open. This approach enhances operational efficiency by streamlining the container transfer process.
18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising moving the container to a shelf location within the housing with the container-moving assembly.
This invention relates to automated storage and retrieval systems for containers, particularly in environments where space optimization and efficient access are critical. The system addresses the challenge of managing large numbers of containers in a compact, organized manner while ensuring quick retrieval and storage. The method involves using a container-moving assembly to transport containers to and from a shelf location within a housing. The assembly may include robotic arms, conveyors, or other automated mechanisms to handle containers, ensuring precise placement and retrieval. The system may also incorporate sensors or tracking systems to monitor container positions and optimize storage density. Additionally, the method may include steps for identifying containers, such as using barcodes or RFID tags, to streamline the retrieval process. The invention aims to improve efficiency in warehouses, laboratories, or other settings where container management is essential, reducing manual labor and minimizing errors. The container-moving assembly may be integrated with a control system that coordinates movements based on predefined storage algorithms or real-time demand. The overall system enhances operational speed, accuracy, and scalability in container storage and retrieval operations.
19. The method of claim 12 , further comprising closing the rear door before positioning the container within the port.
A system and method for automated container handling in a port environment addresses inefficiencies in loading and unloading containers from transport vehicles. The invention involves a robotic arm or similar mechanism that retrieves a container from a transport vehicle, such as a truck or train, and positions it within a designated port area for further processing. The method includes aligning the robotic arm with the container, securing the container to prevent movement during transfer, and moving the container to the port area. Additionally, the system ensures the rear door of the transport vehicle is closed before positioning the container within the port to prevent unauthorized access or environmental exposure. The invention improves safety and operational efficiency by automating container handling, reducing manual labor, and minimizing errors during transfer. The system may also include sensors or imaging devices to verify container placement and door closure, ensuring compliance with port regulations. This technology is particularly useful in high-throughput ports where rapid and accurate container handling is critical.
20. The method of claim 12 , further comprising scanning the container with a scanner positioned within the port.
A system and method for automated container inspection and processing within a port environment. The invention addresses inefficiencies in container handling, particularly the need for accurate tracking, security screening, and automated processing of containers as they enter or exit a port. The method involves using a scanner positioned within the port to scan containers, capturing data such as container identifiers, contents, or structural integrity. This scanning process enhances security by detecting unauthorized modifications or hazardous materials, while also improving logistics by ensuring accurate container tracking. The scanner may be integrated with port infrastructure, such as cranes or conveyor systems, to automate the inspection process. The system may also include data processing components that analyze the scanned data to verify container integrity, match containers with shipping manifests, or flag discrepancies for further inspection. By automating these steps, the invention reduces manual labor, minimizes human error, and accelerates container throughput in high-volume port operations. The scanning technology may employ various methods, including optical, X-ray, or RFID scanning, depending on the specific requirements of the port and regulatory standards. The overall goal is to enhance port efficiency, security, and compliance with minimal manual intervention.
Unknown
October 13, 2020
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